What are the sticking points for the EU's new budget?

"In a time of geopolitical instability, the budget will allow Europe to shape its own destiny, in line with its vision and ideals, said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen last July when she unveiled her proposals for the long-term budget."

"At a time when nearly all member states are undertaking the most rigorous fiscal consolidation efforts at home, a massive increase in the EU budget, as proposed by the Commission, does not fit the picture, said German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Cyprus."

"Net recipients that receive more funds than they contribute believe that the budget is too low given the tasks at hand, Janis Emmanouilidis from the Brussels-based think tank European Policy Center told DW."

The Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) negotiations are critical for the EU, determining budget allocations from 2028 to 2035. The European Commission proposed a budget of 1.76 trillion euros, which the European Parliament seeks to increase. Member states are divided, with Germany and the Netherlands opposing the increase due to domestic fiscal constraints, while net recipient countries argue for higher funding. The budget's significance extends to the EU's geopolitical autonomy, as stated by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, emphasizing the need for Europe to shape its own destiny amid instability.

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